HOUSTON RESTAURANT WEEKS TM IS THE LARGEST ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR THE WORLD’S LARGEST FOOD BANK, THE HOUSTON FOOD BANK.
Houston’s most anticipated dining event is celebrating its 22nd year! Get hungry for 32 days of delicious meals & super deals raising necessary funds for the Houston Food Bank. Around 400 of Houston’s most popular restaurants will serve specially priced, multi-course prix fixe menus, giving diners the chance to discover new cuisines at a great price while Dining Out & Doing Good TM !
Houston Methodist Hospital
#1 HOSPITAL IN TEXAS FOR PATIENT CARE & QUALITY
Houston Methodist Hospital has been named the Best Hospital in Texas for 13 years in a row by U.S. News & World Report and recognized on the Honor Roll eight times — with 10 nationally ranked specialties. For more than 100 years, we have provided patients with the highest quality care, the most advanced technology and the best patient experience. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.
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Penny's Big Moment
I am so excited to share our annual Kids and Pets issue with you! This is one of our most beloved issues, and it’s extra special this year because my very own Cavapoo, Penny Apricot, graces our cover! Thanks to the whimsical and incredibly talented photography of Robyn Arouty, we’re able to celebrate Penny’s cover debut, and I can’t wait for you to step into the heartwarming cover story about Robyn and her passion for pets and the families who love them.
Robyn’s photography is absolutely stunning, and her ability to capture the love between pets and their families is truly something special. You’ll have so much fun enjoying her beautiful photos in this cover story – they’re sure to bring a smile to your face just as they did for me when we worked together during our photoshoot with her earlier in the summer. The photograph featured in this letter, by Robyn, is one of my favorites – a special shot of Penny and me together. It’s moments like these that make this issue even more meaningful than usual.
In addition to Penny’s big moment, we’ve got a treasure trove of fun stories for you. From the fabulous family-friendly Okana Resort in Oklahoma City to the stunning Travis Club in Austin, there’s so much to explore. We also feature the magical world of Hopi Teepees, created with love by Marcela Gavira, where she brings unforgettable celebrations to life. And we’re so proud to shine a spotlight on Kids Meals Houston, a nonprofit making a real difference with the soon-todebut new campus in the heart of the Spring Branch community.
I hope you enjoy this whimsical and fun issue as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together. Here’s to celebrating the joy our kids and fur-babies bring into our lives! Thank you for your continued loyalty and I hope you enjoy the close of summer. If you aren’t already, follow us on IG @memoriallifestyle.
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inside the issue
Unconditional Love, Sacred Art
Renowned Houston pet photographer Robyn Arouty beautifully translates each pet’s true essence through her intimate, soulful imagery.
An Endless Water Adventure
Okana Resort is a family-friendly destination with thrilling water attractions, cultural touches, and luxurious amenities.
Revolutionizing pediatrics through personalized, preventive care
PurePediatrics is transforming pediatric care in Houston through concierge medicine.
HopiTepees transforms spaces into themed wonderlands, creating unforgettable parties.
Robyn Arouty’s award-winning work spans from cherished family pets to lifesaving portraits of Houston’s homeless animals.
Suzanne Schakett
proud to show off her cavapoo, Penny Apricot, on this month’s cover. Photography: Robyn Arouty
AUGUST 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1:
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Leisa Holland-Nelson Bowman, Jenny Todd, Maria Martinez at the Cattle Baron’s Ball kick off party. 2: Lacey Dalcour, Vicki Luna at the Cattle Baron’s Ball kick off party. 3: Meredith Marshall, Amanda Seaberg, Natalie Mohtashami at the Mahjong for a Cure Soirée. 4: Sal Fenlon, Thea Pheasey, Stephanie Fleck at the Mahjong for a Cure soirée. 5: Michelle Smith, Elizabeth Mann at Convenant House Texas’ Night of Broadway Stars. 6: Nikita & Anthony Flynn, Mike Holland at Convenant House Texas’ Night of Broadway Stars. 7: Christy Lynn Lee, Donna Lewis, Karen Kwok at CanCare’s Hope Survivor luncheon.
KATY ANDERSON
JACOB POWER
KATY ANDERSON
PRISCILLA DICKSON
JACOB POWER
JACOB POWER
PRISCILLA DICKSON
business monthly
The Hobby Center Announced Live at the Founders Club 2025-2026 Lineup
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts with presenting sponsor ExxonMobil announce the Live at the Founders Club 2025-2026 Season, an intimate music club experience showcasing both local and international talent in a format not commonly offered in Houston.
With nine carefully curated artists from September through June, the third season of Live at the Founders Club offers a varied lineup of local and global talent highlighting three broad genres: Jazz, World Music, and Broadway Songbook.
Photography courtesy of Hobby Center for Performing Arts
JW Marriott Houston Downtown Expands into
Landmark Battelstein Building
As the global spotlight turns to 2026 FIFA World Cup host cities, the JW Marriott Houston Downtown is preparing to add some fresh star power to the region’s luxury hospitality scene with a landmark, multi-million-dollar expansion and renovation. Set in the heart of Downtown at 806 Main, immediately south of the future Main Street Promenade, the hotel and surrounding neighborhood will unveil a bold new vision in early 2026.
Clarkwood Debuts Courtyard Bar
Clarkwood proudly unveils its newest addition: the courtyard bar, a chic alfresco extension to one of Houston’s premier cocktail destinations. Just in time for summer, the newly opened 1,500-square-foot space blends stylish open-air design with elevated hospitality, doubling Clarkwood’s capacity and introducing an inspired setting for sipping, socializing, and late-night programming.
Photography Courtesy of JW Marriott Houston Downtown
Photography by Alex Montoya
EN GARDE
FOR A NEW SCHOOL YEAR
At Alliance Fencing Academy, we’re proud to offer year-round enrollment for students ages 5 and up—no experience necessary! Our Beginner Course is designed for children and young adults eager to learn the art, discipline, and excitement of fencing in a safe, structured, and engaging environment.
• Build confidence, focus, and agility
• Train in a supportive and active community
• Experience the sport at an Olympic-level facility Alliance students proudly represent Team USA, compete on the international stage, and fence for top NCAA programs at the most prestigious U.S. universities.
Houston
Food
Bank
Can Now
Rescue More Food from Local Grocers
Houston Food Bank announced a $750,000 grant from Walmart and Feeding America®, part of a continuing, multi-year partnership to strengthen food donation efforts between food banks, partner agencies and local retailers.
Funded by Walmart and awarded to 13 food banks in the Feeding America network of local food banks, the Retail Agency Capacity Grant equips food banks’ partner agencies with equipment, vehicles and staff to support “food rescue” efforts.
Photography Courtesy of Houston Food Bank
When
UNCONDITIONAL LOVE, SACRED ART
Renowned Houston pet photographer Robyn Arouty beautifully translates each pet’s true essence through her intimate, soulful imagery.
ARTICLE BY TONI HARRISON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBYN AROUTY
Step into her studio, and something shifts. The air stills. The light softens. And then, quietly, a kind of magic begins.
To the outside world, Robyn is a viral pet photographer whose images have captured the hearts of millions. But to those who know — those who’ve sat beside their dogs and cats as she gently, intuitively brings their spirit to life through the lens — she is something more. A translator of soul. A memory-maker. A facilitator of healing.
Her photo shoots aren’t just sessions. They’re experiences. Every animal is met with reverence, not posed but understood. Not directed, but seen and embraced. Somehow, she knows just when to capture the tilt of a
head, the sparkle of a knowing gaze, the story in a tail’s soft wag. It’s as if the pets are speaking, and she is listening—with her camera lens and through her heart.
What began as a passion for homeless pet portraits has evolved into something sacred. Whether for families walking through their pet’s final chapter or those seeking to encapsulate young energy. In those moments, when grief looms or when tender love shines, her photography becomes a lifeline—not just preserving an image but honoring a rare bond that can’t be explained, only felt.
There is a quiet knowing in her work: that pets aren’t just animals; they’re companions, soulmates, and sometimes, the truest form of heartfelt love we’ve ever known. Her images remind us that their presence leaves a forever imprint.
That’s why each session is exclusive by design. Her studio is more than a backdrop. It’s a sanctuary. And the portraits she creates are more than photographs. They’re gifts of art—for now, for always.
She never planned this path, but the dogs called her there—and she followed. Perhaps it’s no surprise. Before picking up a camera, she was a therapist—attuned to energy, emotion, and the invisible threads that connect us. That same gift now helps her translate the silent, sacred stories our pets are always trying to tell.
Her lens doesn’t just capture how they look. It opens us to their soul—exposing how they give and receive love. robynarouty.com
“Photographing animals feels like pure magic. It’s my joy space. I love connecting with people through their pets and creating art together.”
— Robyn Arouty
Robyn Arouty and Clarky.
OKANA RESORT IS A YEAR-ROUND, FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATION WITH THRILLING WATER ATTRACTIONS, CULTURAL TOUCHES, AND LUXURIOUS AMENITIES IN OKLAHOMA CITY.
An Endless Water Adventure
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OKANA RESORT & WATERPARK
Lounge in private cabanas or play in the sand at Okana’s tropical-inspired beach.
Okana Resort and Indoor Waterpark is a sprawling, state-of-the-art destination devoted entirely to water-fueled excitement. Located in the heart of Oklahoma City, the family-friendly attraction boasts the fourth-largest pool in the country and the region's largest indoor waterpark at an impressive 100,000 square feet. Okana is also home to the steepest water coaster drop in the U.S., making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, the resort takes its name from the Chickasaw words Okah (water) and Ikana (friend). As the only tribal-owned resort in the city, guests will find thoughtful nods throughout the property to Oklahoma's 39 tribal nations. From the moment they arrive, guests are ushered into the brightly colored lobby with a welcome drink and snack, where two larger-thanlife murals by First American artists set the tone for a culturally rich experience.
INDOOR WATERPARK
Set at a balmy 82 degrees, Okana's indoor waterpark is ready to welcome visitors year-round. Featuring 15 slides, a surfing simulator, lazy river, and wave pool, there is no shortage of thrills. There are also separate areas dedicated to young children and adults 21+, ensuring something for every age group. When it's time to relax, guests can grab a bite from the concession stands, lounge in the ample seating, or unwind in a private cabana. CONTINUED >
OKANA BEACH
Open each season on Memorial Day, Okana Beach is the place to be for outdoor water-filled fun. Despite large crowds, the expansive pool feels endless, making it easy to enjoy plenty of room with family and friends. The white sand beach, made from 90 truckloads of imported sand, adds to the tropical vibes. Guests can choose to lounge in rows of sun chairs lining the water's edge or rent one of nearly 30 private cabanas, each with its own ceiling fan, television, and curtains to fully enclose the space for more privacy.
While kids burn off energy on outdoor attractions like an inflatable obstacle course, zipline, slides, and diving boards, adults can unwind in a dedicated 21+ pool or sip cocktails at the swim-up bar designed just for grown-ups.
EVEN MORE AMENITIES
The resort offers plenty beyond the water attractions, including a massive 20,000-square-foot family entertainment zone with an arcade, VR experiences, laser tag, and great prizes. Those looking for relaxation can visit the resort's full-service spa, which features a full menu of beauty and spa treatments, including massage and facials.
From smoked ribs to Tex-Mex and ice cream, Okana’s dining scene satisfies every craving.
Murals, décor, and local goods reflect the Chickasaw Nation and Oklahoma’s 39 tribal nations.
At the Dock Shop, one of the resort's on-site boutiques, guests can browse a selection of gifts and souvenirs. Many items are sourced from First American and local Oklahoma businesses, making it easy to support the region's artisans and makers.
SIP & SAVOR
When hunger strikes, there are 13 on-site dining spots to choose from. Highlights include Jack Rabbit, a gastropub serving elevated twists on comfort food, and Smokehouse Social, known for crowd-pleasers like smoked pork ribs and
burnt-end queso. Chido's offers delicious Tex-Mex, and the popular Okana Candy Co. serves up sweet treats, including premium ice cream and Bedré Fine Chocolates.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Those staying overnight can choose from 10 different room and suite styles ranging from 420 to 720 square feet. Each features Native American-inspired design elements, including woven headboards and art, large-screen TVs, and views of the Oklahoma River, Okana Beach, or city skyline. okanaresort.com
The 100,000-square-foot indoor waterpark offers year-round slides, waves, and surf thrills.
Concierge Medicine Delivered on Your Schedule
· Direct access to board-certified ER physicians —no call centers, no delays
· Discreet in-home care for urgent and wellness needs.
· No memberships, just expert care when you need it.
REVOLUTIONIZING PEDIATRICS THROUGH personalized, preventive care
Roshni Sambasivan, MD, Kelly Hodges, MD, Alana Kennedy-Nasser, MD, Sara Curtis, MD, Paige Garrison, MD, (back row) Alex Injac, MD and Dean Nasser, MD.
PUREPEDIATRICS IS TRANSFORMING PEDIATRIC CARE IN HOUSTON THROUGH CONCIERGE MEDICINE.
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN HOLUB PHOTOGRAPHY
As a pediatric hematologist/oncologist, Dr. Alana is used to treating children and taking her own to the doctor’s office for sick and wellness visits. During one visit, while sitting with her kids on plastic chairs in a crowded, windowless waiting room, she questioned if this was the best family experience.
After the waiting room, different assistants measured her kids' height, weight, and vision. After moving into a small room with paper-thin walls, the pediatrician finally rolled in a workstation to ask questions and conduct a brief exam before leaving. Eventually, the medical assistant arrived with shots.
"The experience was impersonal," says Dr. Alana. "The system was designed to see you without knowing anything about your children. From my time as an attending on the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Texas Children’s Hospital, I knew the value of accountability and ownership of a pediatric medical case. Modern medicine needs a captain for medical care for best results.”
As the visionary leader of PurePediatrics, Dr. Alana and her growing team are harnessing the power of preventive care by offering concierge medicine throughout Houston with offices in Bellaire, Memorial, and River Oaks. For nearly two decades, she has made her home in Houston and has worked to transform the local medical community.
“After that fateful pediatric visit, I called my husband to share my idea for changing local medicine for families and asked him if this was a good idea. Turns out, other moms were looking for something different in medicine, too.” Now, PurePediatrics has expanded to include six board-certified pediatricians, two nurse practitioners, and a Board-Certified Pulmonary and Critical Care physician for adult care.
Dr. Alana expanded the practice after realizing how happy she was caring for her patients and believed other doctors would feel the same. "Happy doctors practice great medicine," she explains. At the heart of the Memorial location, Dr. Sara Curtis and Dr. Paige Garrison passionately engage with patients while delivering excellent medical care.
PurePediatrics provides personalized, concierge-level medicine through a membership-based model. “Our mission is to empower families and transform the way children grow into healthy adults. We want our patients to live a great life for as long as possible.”
As a member of PurePediatrics, families have 24/7 access to their doctor. From one-hour well visits to house calls within 10 miles or urgent phone calls or texts, the doctors answer the phone. That is the number one reason families choose to stay with the practice and recommend it to others. The first family that joined Dr. Alana at PurePediatrics in 2013 is still her patients and will be heading off to college.
What should families expect during a visit to PurePediatrics? Not the traditional pediatric visit. "I flipped the script," explains Dr. Alana. "My room is spacious with an inviting couch and desk. There are play tables for kids to stay entertained while I get to know the family, including caregivers, grandparents, pets, and children's lives and activities. "With top machinery in our offices and a specialist network, we quickly address issues with a plan of action."
With concierge medicine, a family gains a partner on their health journey in a comfortable setting, utilizing advanced technology and a meaningful touch. purepediatrics.com
Dr. Sarah Curtis
MARTHANN MASTERSON
Premium Wine Lockers for Rent In the Heart of River Oaks/Memorial
FAMILY-FIRST LUXURY LIVING
Nestled on Lake Travis, the Travis Club embodies a luxurious lifestyle in the Texas Hill Country.
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE LEVINE
Taking full advantage of its breathtaking Hill Country setting, Travis Club features walking trails, spacious custom homesites, and private amenities that enhance daily life. Launched in 2023, the community is nestled on Lake Travis and has sold over 120 homesites in just 18 months.
Travis Club blends luxury living with wide-open views and over 10,000 feet of private shoreline.
“Shared programming, from seasonal celebrations to lake days supports multigenerational connection in a way that feels elevated, not overwhelming.” – Chris Wells
Travis Club brings families together through thoughtful planning. Chris Wells, Director of Sales at Travis Club, says, “Whether you are raising a family or creating a second home to share with the next generation, this community caters to families with its intentional design.”
A highlight of the neighborhood will be the Beau Welling-designed golf course, opening in 2026. Additional upcoming attractions include The Peninsula Club and the lakeside Party Barn—perfect for sunset dinners, kids’ movie nights, and seasonal events.
Homesites are organized into smaller enclaves that promote community connections, including cul-de-sacs and greenbelts, to encourage social interaction. Walking trails connect homes to essential amenities like the future clubhouse, pools, and golf course. With safety being a top priority, this gated community minimizes roadways to promote biking and walking.
“Custom-built homes should reflect a family’s lifestyle, whether that’s hosting friends or providing kids with safe spaces to roam,” says Wells. “Families are building homes with open layouts and functional spaces such as drop zones for backpacks, mudrooms, and flex zones that can serve as offices or playrooms. Oversized garages to store golf carts, paddle boards, and outdoor gear are a new trend in custom family homes."
Families are also incorporating seamless indoor-outdoor living, with covered porches featuring outdoor kitchens that offer poolside views and highlight the natural beauty of the Hill Country.
A relaxed lakeside retreat with the infrastructure and amenities of a luxury primary residence, Travis Club is bringing community, safety, and elevated design to modern family lakeside living. travisclubaustin.com
With lake access, trails, and a family-focused vibe, Travis Club offers a rare blend of nature and community just outside Austin.
Making Room for What Matters
Remodeling your home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating space that works for your life. Whether it’s a growing family, the need for a home office, or simply a desire for better organization, smart renovations can transform underused areas into high-functioning, beautiful spaces. From custom storage solutions to expanded bathrooms and open-concept living, remodeling allows you to tailor your home to fit your needs—without the stress of moving. It’s not just more space. It’s more room to live, breathe, and thrive.
craftsmanshipbyjohn.com | 713.984.8834
The Birdsall Residences
ALL THE THRILLS
HopiTepees transforms spaces into themed wonderlands, creating unforgettable parties.
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HOPITEPEES
For kids, there is nothing more exciting and adventurous than a sleepover. These overnight parties allow kids to bond, play games, and create lasting memories. Over the past seven years, HopiTepees has become a popular choice for indoor camping experiences. The company is known for its attention to detail, excellent customer service, and unique on-trend party ideas.
HopiTepees takes the stress out of party planning by offering a seamless experience. With over 50 themes to choose from, the company handles everything from setup to breakdown, ensuring a hassle-free event for parents. Their all-inclusive packages cater to children aged 6-15, providing a memorable sleepover for both boys and girls.
The dedicated team at HopiTepees is committed to personalization and detail, delivering an upscale experience that brings the magic of a sleepover to life. hopitepees.com
On the Move
KIDS’ MEALS HOUSTON IS MOVING NEW HEADQUARTERS TO EXPAND HUNGER RELIEF EFFORTS.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KID’S MEALS HOUSTON
A rendering of Kids’ Meals’ new headquarters in Spring Branch.
Groudbreaking at Kid’s Meals new headquarters.
Kids’ Meals, Inc., the Houston-based nonprofit addressing childhood hunger, will be moving to new headquarters in Spring Branch. The new facility at 8790 Hammerly Boulevard is designed to meet growing demand and will allow the organization to reach 26,000 children daily by 2031.
Since 2006, Kids’ Meals has delivered more than 14 million free, healthy meals to preschool-aged children in 56 Houstonarea zip codes. The program focuses on children ages five and under who are too young for school-based meal assistance.
“We are especially grateful for the generous support we’ve received from Houston’s philanthropic community, investors and volunteers as we couldn’t do it without them,” said Beth Harp, CEO of Kids’ Meals. “The growth made possible by the Greater Houston community is incredible and we look forward to feeding and serving thousands more Houston-area children in our new facility upon completion in mid-2025.”
The current 18,500 square-foot facility has been operating at maximum capacity. The new 50,000 square-foot building
will expand food preparation and storage areas, volunteer space, and office capacity for the nonprofit’s 43 employees. Construction partners include Pin Oak Interests, Kirksey Architecture, and Satterfield & Pontikes.
This year’s Harvest Luncheon, an important fundraiser for the organization on November 4, will feature Jason Johnson, CEO of MetroNational, and his wife Stacy Johnson, Director of Community Development for MetroNational, who are longtime partners of Kids’ Meals. The couple’s philanthropic spirit has supported the development of Kids’ Meals’ new volunteer facility, as well as over 30,000 shelf-stable lunches for hungry children across Houston.
The luncheon will also feature former NASA Astronaut and award-winning author, Dr. José Hernández as the keynote speaker. "MetroNational is dedicated to serving the community around us and helping shape a brighter future for the next generation," said Johnson. "When you provide a meal, you're not just feeding a child but investing in their future." kidsmealsinc.org
Since 2006, Kids’ Meals has delivered more than 14 million free, healthy meals to preschoolaged children in 56 Houston-area zip codes.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ZANTI
CUCINA ITALIANA
IF YOU EAT ONE THING
SOL DE VALENCIA FEATURES HOUSEMADE ORANGE SORBET NESTLED INSIDE A HAND-HOLLOWED VALENCIA ORANGE, OFFERING A REFRESHING DESSERT PERFECT FOR SUMMER.
Nothing says summer quite like the crisp, flavorful taste of chilled citrus. It cools and delights on a warm Houston day and is the ideal way to end a meal. At Zanti Cucina Italiana, founder Santiago Peláez has taken the taste of summer and put it into a stunning and delicious citrus dessert. Sol de Valencia, available for brunch, lunch, and dinner through August, is a citrus-forward dish that highlights simplicity and seasonal flavor. Peláez walks us through how the dish comes together. zanticucina.com
THE ORANGE
Peláez chose Valencia orange for this dish for a variety of reasons. "It has a balanced sweetness and acidity, high juice content, low pulp and seed ratio, and a delicate floral aroma," he says.
The orange is washed, disinfected, and brought to room temperature. Then, it's cut open and hollowed by hand using a traditional artisanal technique. "We remove the pulp gently with a
Parisian spoon," Peláez explains. "That keeps the peel intact so it can be frozen and used as a natural, aromatic serving vessel."
THE SORBET
The orange sorbet is made in-house. Juice is manually extracted to avoid bitterness from the peel's oils. "We blend the juice with organic sugar and a natural stabilizer to preserve flavor and texture," Peláez says. "The sorbet features natural floral notes and a balanced citrus character. The recipe's simplicity allows the orange's aromatic qualities to shine."
THE LIQUEUR
On the side, guests can add a chilled shot of Jalisco Orange Liqueur, which is meant to be sipped. "It intensifies the orange aroma and adds warmth and complexity to the sorbet experience," says Peláez.
Zanti, Sol de Valencia
Summer Treasures
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
BY JANIE JONES
PHOTOGRAPHY
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error, they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Steps:
• 4 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
Color and style
ARTICLE BY DIANE COWEN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY KIRK
Designer Lindsey Herod mixes it up for lively home projects
Wallpaper with a soft floral pattern creates a serene setting in this music room. Styled by Curious Details
A corkboard covered in fabric swatches hangs on a wall behind Lindsey Herod, the Houston interior designer known for her eclectic style using plenty of color and pattern.
“I like rich saturated colors. And there are always florals unless the client doesn’t like them,” Lindsey said. “Teal, turquoise, plum, blues, pinks and chartreuse, lots of greens and blues and I use them all in the same room. I love a lot of bold color.”
Lindsey recently celebrated the 10-year anniversary of her Houston-based firm, Lindsey Herod Interiors, which she founded after working for several years in the New York office of the celebrated designer, Celerie Kemble. In August, Lindsey will be honored as a Leader In Design by the Houston Design District.
“Celerie is a big personality and so is her mother, so the color, sense of place and personality – all of that came from my experience with her. They operate on a whole other level of design, and I learned a ton more than I could have gotten from any degree,” said Lindsey who earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Texas A&M then earned a master’s at the Pratt Institute in New York.
She met her husband, Clint Herod, at Texas A&M, and while she was working for Celerie Kemble in New York, Clint, a live sports producer, worked for ESPN in Connecticut. He now works for Space City Home Network, handling Rockets and Astros games. The couple has three children.
A couple of home products Lindsey loves right now are cordless, re-chargeable lamps that can be used all over the house in places where electrical outlets are nonexistent or hard to get to, plus performance rugs that come in all styles. She recently put a performance sisal rug in her own living room.
Interior designer Lindsey Herod chose Scalamandre ’ s “ Raphael ” wallpaper in shades of blue for this mudroom and laundry room. Styled by Curious Details
A custom - made drapery canopy and upholstered headboard were designed for this primary bedroom by Lindsey Herod. Styled by Curious Details
AUGUST 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 9TH
Teddy Swims in Concert
713 Music Hall | 8:00 PM
The smooth-voiced Teddy Swims is heading out on the "I've Tried Everything But Therapy" Tour! The singer-songwriter is well known for his genre-mixing sounds, combining elements from (but not limited to!) country, R&B, pop, and soul. The talented singer warmed up on his international summer tour and is ready to take your breath away.
AUGUST 15TH
Jason Aldeen in Concert
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | 7:30 PM
Buckle up, because Jason Aldean is hitting the road this summer on his Full Throttle Tour! With fellow country artists Nate Smith, RaeLynn, and Dee Jay Silver joining as special guests, this exciting outing will take them across North America, with stops in Austin, Denver, Toronto, and many more.
AUGUST 24TH
Mariachi Festival: Mariachi Mariposas & More
Wortham Theater | 3:00 PM
Celebrating our Hispanic cultureThe final day of the 6th Annual Mariachi Festival features performances by Mariachi Mariposas, Ballet Folklórico South Texas College, Winners of the National Youth Mariachi Vocal Competition, and Houston-area high school mariachi groups. Duration 180 minutes, including intermission.
After 46 years of providing outstanding and memorable carpets, service, and support, Maria and Arif Wahab have decided that the time is right to retire and close LGI Oriental Rugs at the end of August.
They fondly remember the camaraderie they have enjoyed over the years collaborating with designers, working with local colleges and universities to speak with design students, and helping people find the perfect carpet for their homes and offices.
LGI Oriental Rugs, located for the last 32 years at The Houston Design Center, has actively supported Risotto Festivals, Sip and Stroll events, Cruise Parties, and Spring and Fall Markets.
Please accept our personal invitation to come in and visit LGI Oriental Rugs during its final and biggest event. Maria and Arif would love to visit with you, share a cup of tea or coffee and help you find the perfect statement carpet.
Travis Club is redefining Hill Country living. From days on the water to racquet sports, wellness, lakeside dining, a Beau Welling-designed 18-hole course, and 30+ miles of private trails, every moment invites connection and adventure. Now, with our latest Phase 2 release, we’re unveiling some of our most exceptional homesites yet — estate properties up to two acres, set on elevated terrain with panoramic views of the 15th and 18th fairways, Lake Travis, and the surrounding Hill Country.
